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‘Who Will Call Me Dad?’ Tears Of Gaza Father Who Lost 103 Relatives

March 10, 2024February 26, 2024 by Asare Michael Baarffour (Devarsh)

Mohammed Al-Hadidi the Gaza father who lost 103 relatives have gone viral with his “who will call me dad?” question.

Mohammed al-Hadidi was excited to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with his wife and four sons, who had gone to see their grandparents in the al-Shati refugee camp in Gaza City. He never believed that would be the last time he saw them alive.

On Saturday, May 15, 2024, Israeli aircraft struck the three-story building where his family was residing, killing ten individuals, including his wife and children, as well as thirteen other relatives.

The only survivor was his five-month-old baby, Omar, who was discovered beneath the wreckage in the arms of his deceased mother.

“I heard the sound of the explosion and I knew something terrible had happened,” Al-Hadidi told Al Jazeera. “I rushed to the scene and I saw the building completely destroyed. I started searching for my family, hoping to find them alive, but I only found their bodies.”

Al-Hadidi expressed his grief over the loss of his loved ones, whom he regarded as “the most precious thing in my life”. He questioned why Israel targeted his family, who had nothing to do with the armed organizations that have been firing rockets at Israel.

“They were innocent civilians, they had no weapons, they had no rockets, they had no affiliation with any political party,” he said. “They were just children, playing and laughing, enjoying their holiday. Why did they kill them? What did they do to deserve this?”

Al-Hadidi stated that he was now alone with his young son, who sustained a brain injury and burns in the attack. He stated that he did not know how to deal with the sorrow and the responsibility of parenting Omar without his mother and brothers.

“Who will call me Dad? Who will hug me and kiss me? Who will play with me and make me happy?” he said, wiping away his tears. “Omar is the only one left, but he is too young to understand what happened. He will grow up without knowing his family, without knowing his mother’s love, without knowing his brothers’ friendship.”

Al-Hadidi expressed optimism that the international community will intervene to stop Israeli aggression and alleviate the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza, who have been subjected to a crushing blockade for more than a decade.

President Akufo-Addo To Deliver State Of The Nation Address (SONA) On February 27

March 3, 2024February 26, 2024 by Asare Michael Baarffour (Devarsh)

President Akufo-Addo To Deliver SONA On February 27

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is set to deliver his annual State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Tuesday, February 27, 2024. Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution requires the President to provide an overview of the country’s current state as well as key policy objectives for the coming year.

The excitement surrounding this address is obvious. As the country faces economic challenges, citizens are eager to learn more about the government’s improvement strategies.

President Akufo-Addo’s message will resonate not only in the hallowed halls of Parliament, but also throughout Ghana. In keeping with tradition, the President’s speech will emphasise critical areas of focus.

From economic stability to social welfare, infrastructure development to education reform, the State of the Union Address serves as a compass to guide the nation’s course. It is the point at which promises meet accountability and aspirations become reality.

This upcoming address is particularly significant. It is President Akufo-Addo’s second-to-last presentation to Parliament during his term. The nation pays close attention as it reflects on accomplishments, acknowledges challenges, and charts a course for the future. In a divided world, the State of the Union address serves as a unifying force.

It reminds us that we are all invested in Ghana’s success. Regardless of political affiliation, we all have a common destiny. As President Akufo-Addo steps to the podium, he bears the weight of leadership and the hopes of millions.

The road ahead is both promising and challenging. With grassroots contributions exceeding $1 million in the last 24 hours, there is enough fuel for the journey. The President’s words will spark debates, inspire action, and influence policy. Every sentence matters, whether it is about inflation, job creation, or healthcare access.

As the clock approaches February 27, Ghana prepares for a period of reflection and projection. President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address will reverberate throughout history, leaving an indelible impression on our collective consciousness. Let us listen carefully, for those words hold the promise of a better Ghana.

Koch Network Pulls Funding From Nikki Haley’s Campaign After Loss In South Carolina

March 10, 2024February 26, 2024 by Asare Michael Baarffour (Devarsh)

The political landscape is frequently treacherous, with alliances forming and breaking with the ebb and flow of electoral tides. Koch Network pulls funding from Nikki Haley’s campaign after suffering a huge loss to Donald Trump in South Carolina.

Nikki Haley, the former US Ambassador to the United Nations and a prominent Republican figure faced a difficult campaign in her home state. However, her defeat to former President Donald Trump dealt a significant setback to her ambitions. The South Carolina primary, held on Saturday, became the battleground where Haley’s political fate was on the line.

Americans for Prosperity Action (AFP Action), the Koch network’s political arm, was a strong supporter of Haley’s campaign. Their financial support provided critical resources for her presidential campaign.

However, in the wake of her defeat, AFP Action has decided to suspend its funding. The network, backed by billionaire Charles Koch, made the announcement the day after Haley’s defeat in South Carolina.

Emily Seidel, CEO of AFP Action, explained the decision in an internal email to her staff. She stated, “Given the challenges in the primary states ahead, we don’t believe any outside group can make a significant difference in broadening her path to victory.” So, while we will continue to support her, we will direct our resources where they can make a difference.” In essence, the network continues to support Haley’s candidature but will now express it in words rather than money.

Haley’s problems extend beyond the Koch network. Reid Hoffman, a billionaire known for his tech ventures and political involvement, also contributed financially to her campaign. However, he also withdrew his support in January. The combination of AFP Action and Hoffman’s decisions have put Haley’s campaign in jeopardy.

Despite these setbacks, Nikki Haley remains determined. Her campaign has confirmed that she will remain in the race until Super Tuesday on March 5. In a statement, Haley’s team thanked AFP Action for their contributions to the fight for freedom and conservative government. They emphasised their determination to continue the fight, boosted by grassroots conservative contributions totaling more than $1 million in the last 24 hours.

The Largest Mosque in Africa is in Algeria: All You Need to Know

February 26, 2024 by Mr. No-Body

On a landmark day that marks a new chapter in Algeria’s rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual history, President Abdelmadjid Tebboune unveiled The Great Mosque of Algiers, now the crowning jewel of Africa’s architectural heritage and the largest mosque in Africa. This monumental edifice is not only a place of worship but a symbol of Algeria’s aspirations, resilience, and architectural ambition.

The Great Mosque, now the third-largest globally, only surpassed by the grand mosques of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia, stands as a testament to Algeria’s dedication to Islamic art and spirituality. Spanning an expansive 70 acres (28 hectares), the mosque’s grandeur is not just in its size but in its capacity to welcome up to 120,000 worshippers, offering a unifying space for prayer and reflection.

A pinnacle of its architectural marvel is the world’s tallest minaret, a soaring tower that reaches towards the heavens, serving as a beacon of faith and a monumental reminder of the Islamic call to prayer. This architectural feat not only encapsulates the essence of Islamic tradition but also pushes the boundaries of modern engineering and design.

ALSO READ: From GH¢100m to GH¢604m: Ablakwa blows alarm on hiked All African Games ‘operational expenses’ (ghanaeducation.org)

Constructed over seven years with an investment exceeding $800 million, The Largest Mosque in Africa, which is in Algeria is a bold statement of Algeria’s cultural and religious identity. Its inauguration comes at a poignant time, just ahead of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, when the mosque is expected to host prayers, becoming a spiritual home for thousands seeking solace and community during this sacred period.

The project, which is now the Largest Mosque in Africa, initiated by former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, has seen its completion through turbulent times, including Bouteflika’s resignation in 2019 amid widespread protests against his prolonged tenure. Despite these challenges, the mosque stands as a legacy of Bouteflika’s vision for Algeria, a beacon of peace and unity in the heart of the Maghreb.

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The Great Mosque of Algiers is more than a place of worship; it is a cultural landmark that bridges Algeria’s past and future. It embodies the country’s rich Islamic heritage while heralding a new era of architectural innovation and spiritual gathering. As the mosque opens its doors to worshippers and visitors alike, it promises to be a place of profound spiritual journeying, scholarly pursuit, and intercultural dialogue, enhancing Algeria’s position on the world stage as a custodian of Islamic culture and hospitality.

As Algeria steps into a future marked by this monumental achievement, The Great Mosque of Algiers is poised to become a symbol of unity, faith, and architectural splendor for generations to come.

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From GH¢100m to GH¢604m: Ablakwa blows alarm on hiked All African Games ‘operational expenses’

February 26, 2024 by Mr. No-Body

In a startling revelation, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has raised serious concerns over the spiraling operational expenses for the upcoming 13th All African Games hosted by Ghana. Through documents made public, Ablakwa has highlighted what appears to be a substantial fiscal discrepancy involving an over 500% increase in the originally approved budget by Parliament for the event’s operational costs.

The heart of the issue lies in the staggering amount of US$48 million (equivalent to GH¢602 million), earmarked for “operational expenses” of the games set to run from March 5 to March 23, 2024. This figure stands in stark contrast to the US$195 million (GH¢2.4 billion) already allocated for infrastructure, sparking debates on fiscal responsibility and transparency within the government’s ranks.

Ablakwa ‘s allegations concerning the All African Games squarely place President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) at the center of this financial uproar. According to the documents, this expenditure was agreed upon without parliamentary approval, a move Ablakwa deems “elephantine, wrongful, and unconscionable.”

In a meticulously detailed social media post-dated February 26, 2024, Ablakwa not only questioned the legality of the revised budget but also criticized the President’s approach towards raising funds for these operational expenses for hosting the All African Games. Highlighting a series of fundraising meetings chaired by President Akufo-Addo, he pointed to a potentially problematic reliance on public funds and significant contributions from state-owned enterprises and private companies with substantial government contracts.

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The implications of such financial decisions are far-reaching, especially for a country grappling with economic challenges and an ongoing IMF bailout negotiation. Ablakwa ‘s exposé about the government on the All African Games raises critical questions about fiscal discipline, priority setting in government spending, and the broader impacts on Ghana’s economy.

Moreover, the MP’s call to action suggests a brewing storm in Parliament, with hints at possible impeachment discussions and a summons for the Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif, to clarify these expenditures. This scenario underlines a growing concern over governance, accountability, and the stewardship of public funds in Ghana.

As the country prepares to host a significant continental sporting event, the debate over the All-African Games budget underscores a critical juncture in Ghana’s political and fiscal landscape. It presents a moment for reflection on governance priorities, the importance of fiscal oversight, and the need for a balanced approach to hosting international events without compromising the country’s financial integrity.

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For God and Country, as Ablakwa signs off, this controversy is not just about numbers on a balance sheet but about the principles of transparency, accountability, and the prudent management of a nation’s resources for the benefit of its people.

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Louisiana Inmate Escaped Custody After Pepper Spraying Deputy, Stealing Officer’s Car

March 10, 2024February 26, 2024 by Asare Michael Baarffour (Devarsh)

According to the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, a Louisiana inmate charged with second-degree murder escaped custody on Sunday after pepper-spraying a deputy and stealing her car.

The inmate, Leon Ruffin, was being taken from a local hospital to the correctional centre around noon on Sunday when he caused a disturbance in the hospital parking lot, Sheriff Joseph Lopinto stated at a press conference.

When the cop who was driving him stepped out to check on him, Ruffin pepper sprayed her and stole her car, according to Lopinto. The cop fired shots at the car, but it’s unclear whether Ruffin was struck.

Lopinto stated that Ruffin should be regarded as “armed and dangerous” and that he “has nothing to lose” because he might face life in prison if convicted of the murder accusation. He also stated that officials had no idea where Ruffin obtained the pepper spray, as the cop still possessed the pepper spray, taser, and firearm following the incident.

According to Lopinto, Ruffin was transported to the hospital after suffering a potential seizure in the prison facility’s medical unit. He did, however, say that they suspected Ruffin of faking his injuries.

Ruffin was arrested in January for fatally shooting a 21-year-old man in Harvey, Louisiana, according to ABC News. He has previous convictions for armed robbery, burglary, and violence.

Authorities have contacted the victim’s family in Ruffin’s murder investigation and are collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to find and catch him.

As at now, Ruffin, the Louisiana inmate who pepper sprayed the female police officer is on the run. Authorities have flagged him armed and dangerous and been charged of second degree murder.

Latest updates regarding the run-away Louisiana inmate, Ruffin will be updated and shared as well.

JUST IN: Lord Jacob Rothschild Dies At Age Of 87

March 10, 2024February 26, 2024 by Asare Michael Baarffour (Devarsh)

Lord Jacob Rothschild dies at the age of 87. The famous financier and heir to the Rothschild banking dynasty, has been reported dead at the age of 87 by his family.

The British peer was a successful entrepreneur who co-founded multiple businesses, notably St James’ Place, a wealth management firm, and Windmill Hill Asset Management, a family office. He has also held prominent positions with the family bank NM Rothschild & Sons, BSkyB Television, and the Rothschild Investment Trust.

However, he was also well-known for his love of the arts and culture, as well as his philanthropic contributions to many organisations. He served as chairman of the National Gallery, the National Heritage Memorial Fund, and the Heritage Lottery Fund, as well as a supporter of other organisations and programmes in art, education, science, and Jewish culture.

In 2002, he received the Order of Merit, a renowned distinction bestowed upon persons who have provided extraordinarily meritorious service in the domains of arts, literature, learning, and science.

In a statement sent to the PA news agency, his family added: “Our father Jacob was a towering presence in many people’s lives, a superbly accomplished financier, a champion of the arts and culture, a devoted public servant, a passionate supporter of charitable causes in Israel and Jewish culture, a keen environmentalist and much-loved friend, father and grandfather.”

“He will be buried by Jewish custom in a small family ceremony and there will be a memorial at a later date to celebrate his life.”

Lord Jacob Rothschild was born in 1936 as the eldest son of Victor Rothschild, the third Baron Rothschild, and Barbara Hutchinson, a poet and writer. He attended Eton College and Christ Church, Oxford, where he studied history.

He joined the family bank in 1963 and became chairman in 1976. He left the bank in 1980 after a disagreement with his cousin Sir Evelyn de Rothschild and started his own business.

He married Serena Dunn, the granddaughter of Canadian billionaire Sir James Dunn, in 1961. They had four children named Hannah, Beth, Emily, and Nathaniel. He had two children from a previous relationship, Kate and James.

He was the fourth Baron Rothschild, a title granted in 1885 to honour his great-grandfather Nathan Mayer Rothschild, who founded the Rothschild banking empire’s British division.

Breaking News: MoMo Vendor Ends Life Over Ghc16,000 Debt

February 26, 2024 by Asare Michael Baarffour (Devarsh)

Kwabena Gideon, a 23-year-old Momo vendor ends his life over Ghc16K debt in Awutu Bereku in the Central region.

According to Yaw Boagyan of GHOne News, Kwabena Gideon lost 16,000 Ghana cedis in mobile money transactions in just two weeks. According to police sources, the owner of the mobile money firm submitted an official complaint at the Awutu Bereku Police Station two days previously, alleging that his staff mismanaged GHC16,000.

The company also reported that the employee had erased all of his social media images and shut off his mobile phone, and another phone used for MOMO transactions.

During an interview with GHOne News, a neighbor named Faustina Asare revealed that Kwabena Gideon succumbed to the pressures of his debt, eventually leading to his suicide.

She reported seeing him silently standing behind an incomplete construction on Saturday morning, February 24, 2024. However, she did not engage him in conversation. An hour later, she heard neighbors’ shouts, causing her to run over and discover Kwabena Gideon’s lifeless body in the same location.

Kwabena Gideon, who was married and had a one-year-old boy, allegedly died 20 minutes after consuming poison. Eyewitnesses reported discovering a bottle of poison beside him.

The body of the deceased was taken to the Winneba Trauma and Specialist Hospital for autopsy and preservation. The police have opened an inquiry into the alleged suicide.

The Adontenhene of the Awutu Traditional Council, Nai Ncharkey Okai VII, expressed his regret over the occurrence and advised Ghanaians not to commit suicide when confronted with life’s hardships.

He emphasised the need of seeking support from family and trusted friends during difficult times, arguing for a community in which people help one another through adversity.

More details and news regarding this will be updated and shared as well.

Latest Weather Map Shows London To Be Hit By Snow Within Days

March 10, 2024February 26, 2024 by Asare Michael Baarffour (Devarsh)

The latest weather map shows London to be hit by snow within days. This report highly predicts a high chance of snow in London in the coming days.

According to WXCharts, using MetDesk data, London has a 50% chance of snow on Monday, February 26, 2024, with accumulations of up to two centimeters. The snow may continue into Tuesday, with a 40% probability of flurries and another cm of snow.

The snow forecast for London comes as the UK experiences a cold snap, with temperatures falling below freezing in many areas. The Met Office has issued yellow ice and snow warnings for Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Northern England, predicting up to 10 centimeters of snow on the higher territory.

According to the Met Office: “Colder than average conditions are likely to continue for the rest of February, with a greater than normal chance of snow, especially in the north, but perhaps even in the south too.”

The cold snap is produced by a blast of arctic air that has pushed the jet stream southward, allowing cold air to enter from the north. This is in contrast to the mild and wet weather that dominated the UK in January, making it the seventh wettest month on record.

The cold and snowy weather might create transport delays and power outages, as well as endanger vulnerable individuals and animals. The Met Office warned people to keep cautious and follow the most recent updates and guidance.

Londoners wishing for a snow day may be disappointed, as the snow is unlikely to persist long or cause significant disruption in the metropolis. London is typically spared from severe snowfall due to its urban heat island effect, which keeps it warmer than the surrounding areas.

However, Londoners can still enjoy the city’s rare snowfall, possibly even building a snowman or having a snowball fight, as long as they follow the Covid-19 rules and recommendations. The snow could also provide some stunning views of London’s prominent sites and parks.

UPDATE: 16 Year Old Croydon Boy Committed Suicide Over N*de Photos

March 10, 2024February 26, 2024 by Asare Michael Baarffour (Devarsh)

Dinal De Alwis, a talented 16-year-old boy in Croydon committed suicide over n*de photos.

A smart and ambitious Whitgift School student in Croydon committed suicide after falling prey to a nasty blackmail campaign on social media, according to an investigation.

Dinal De Alwis, 16, was a talented all-rounder who excelled both academically and athletically, representing his school in rugby and football. He aspired to study economics at Cambridge University, having received consecutive A’s in all of his GCSE subjects.

However, his promising future was cut short by a ruthless blackmailer who contacted him over Snapchat and wanted £100 in exchange for not sending n*de images of him to his internet followers.

The inquest heard that on October 26, 2022, Dinal got two images of himself from the blackmailer, who appeared to be working out of Nigeria. The blackmailer wrote, “Do you think banning me will stop me? What do you want me to do, send to all of your followers? Why aren’t you just paying me? £100?”

Dinal, who had recently started sixth form, answered that he assumed the photographs had already been shared with his followers. He then sent “goodbye” texts to his parents and two brothers, telling them he loved them and urging them to take care of one another.

He left his family home around 2 a.m. and captured a quick video of himself going along a suburban street.

His devastated father, Kaushallya De Alwis, told the coroner: “Dinal was the most caring son. He was bright. He got straight A*s in all of his subjects at GCSEs and was top of the school for English and economics. We come from Sri Lanka, so we were so proud to hear he was so good at English. He was brave. He played for the football and rugby teams at Whitgift School. He never asked for anything from us.”

He said, “His loss is the greatest imaginable loss. It is really painful. “The fact that he ended his life in this way suggests that the world is cruel.”

The police and the National Crime Agency revealed that they were unable to locate the blackmailer, who is believed to have had further victims. They recommended anyone who receives such threats to report them without paying any money.

Chris Ramsey, the headmaster of Whitgift School, praised Dinal, describing him as a “gentle, caring, and popular young man” with a “very bright future ahead of him”.

He said: “The whole school community is deeply saddened by this tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

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